Novo Nordisk Thailand Warns Against Fake GLP-1 Drugs and Launches eZTracker

Novo Nordisk Pharma (Thailand) is warning patients about “NOVOTRIMPLUS+,” an unregistered GLP-1 product linked to severe side effects. The company confirms this is not their product and is launching the blockchain-based eZTracker system by 2025 to help users verify authentic Ozempic® and Wegovy® medications.

What is the NOVOTRIMPLUS+ warning?

Novo Nordisk Pharma (Thailand) Ltd. recently confirmed that a product sold under the trade name NOVOTRIMPLUS+ is not registered under Thai law. Reports indicate this product has been distributed in healthcare facilities and has caused severe side effects in patients.

The product’s naming has caused significant public confusion. By using the company’s name within the product title, the unauthorized seller led the public to believe it was an official Novo Nordisk medication.

Did You Know? Novo Nordisk only has two registered weekly injectable GLP-1 (Semaglutide) products in Thailand: Ozempic®, used for type 2 diabetes, and Wegovy®, used for obesity.

Why are unregistered GLP-1 drugs dangerous?

Using medication that hasn’t been properly registered in Thailand exposes patients to critical health risks. According to the company, these products may be sub-standard or of poor quality.

Contamination is a primary concern. These unauthorized drugs could contain harmful substances, which may lead to severe adverse reactions and endanger the patient’s life.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that when counterfeiters mimic brand names, they bypass the safety rigor of the FDA. The stakes aren’t just about a drug “not working,” but about the potential for toxic contaminants to enter the bloodstream.

How does the eZTracker system fight counterfeit drugs?

To combat the spread of fake medications, Novo Nordisk is implementing eZTracker. This blockchain-based technology uses a 2D Data Matrix sticker on every individual box.

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Starting in 2025, patients and healthcare providers can scan the QR code or enter the product code via the eZTracker app. If the system confirms the product, it displays the details; if not, the product is likely counterfeit.

Jihan Sardar Kizilkig, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Pharma (Thailand) Ltd., stated that the company is collaborating with various Thai agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), to handle this issue. He urged users to report any unverified products through the app.

What should patients do before taking medication?

Patients are advised to be proactive when visiting clinics, healthcare facilities, or pharmacies. You should always request to verify the authenticity of the product before administration.

Check the packaging for signs of tampering or irregularity. Ensuring the medication is officially registered with the FDA is the only way to guarantee it meets quality and safety standards.

What may happen next?

The company may increase its reporting efforts through the eZTracker app to map the distribution of fake GLP-1s. Coordination with the Thai FDA is likely to continue as they work to remove unregistered products from the market.

Patients may see a stricter rollout of the 2D Data Matrix stickers across all weekly injectable GLP-1 lines by 2025 to prevent further confusion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is NOVOTRIMPLUS+?
It is an unregistered GLP-1 product that is not manufactured by Novo Nordisk. It has been linked to severe side effects in patients in Thailand.

How can I tell if my Novo Nordisk GLP-1 medication is real?
Verify that the product is either Ozempic® or Wegovy®. Starting in 2025, you can use the eZTracker app to scan the 2D Data Matrix sticker on the box for blockchain verification.

What are the risks of using unregistered medications?
Patients face risks including sub-standard quality, contamination, or the presence of harmful substances, all of which can cause severe health complications.

How do you verify the authenticity of your prescriptions before using them?